Collins Aerospace launched a new wide-area touchscreen flight deck display during the Dubai Airshow. Driven by two computers, the MFD-4820 measures 8 by 20 inches and features a monolithic LED-backlit screen. The day/night-optimized screen is compatible with night-vision goggles and also remains visible in strong sunlight.
The MFD-4820 employs resistive touchscreen technology that helps prevent inadvertent inputs but permits both point designation and the positioning and scaling of screen display elements. It can be used both with and without flying gloves. In terms of display elements, the screen supports video imagery and can be reconfigured to suit any requirement, including picture-in-picture capability. It can be configured to present three traditional portals where each equates to a standard 6- by 8-inch display while taking up the space typically occupied by two separate displays. Moreover, power and weight requirements are significantly reduced, while the unit draws on data through standard interfaces to minimize the modifications required for retrofit installation.
Wide-area screens are gaining traction in the fighter world as display computer processing power has increased. The Lockheed Martin F-35 was the first to introduce this technology and it is also being applied to the latest F-15 Eagle versions and the Saab Gripen E/F. Collins Aerospace (Stand 1055) sees wide-area as “the next step” and has developed the MFD-4820 to answer what it sees as an inevitable increase in demand for this kind of display, both as a retrofit for older aircraft and for new types. The screen is scalable to a degree, but the current format was selected as having the most potential for installation in a wide range of platforms.
While fighters are leading the way in widescreen employment, the MFD-4820 could also be used in a range of other aircraft and helicopters as an aid to reducing pilot workload and increasing situational awareness. The fighter trainer market, in particular, is seen as offering potential, as customers seek to train fighter pilots in aircraft that are as close in character to the front-line equipment as possible. Although the display has only just been publicly launched, discussions with potential customers are already underway.